1. SUPER BOWL ADS REFLECT A STRESSED NATION

This year’s Super Bowl commercials focused on caring for others, staying healthy, and finding moments of humor during a difficult time for the country. Advertisers used emotional messages about neighbors helping neighbors, health screenings, and safety reminders, while also leaning on comedy, celebrities, and nostalgia to make people laugh. Artificial intelligence appeared in many ads, sometimes as a helpful tool and sometimes as something people fear, especially after recent job layoffs linked to automation. Many brands also used music and stars from the 1990s to create a sense of comfort and shared memory. With tens of millions of people watching at once, the Super Bowl gave companies a rare chance to speak to the nation during a shared cultural moment. Choose one theme that appeared in multiple Super Bowl ads, such as humor, nostalgia, health, or concern about technology. Write a paragraph explaining why advertisers might think this theme would connect with viewers right now, using at least two examples from recent news stories.

2. PROTESTS TURN CHAOTIC OUTSIDE MINNESOTA FEDERAL BUILDING

Protests outside a federal building near Minneapolis led to at least 50 arrests after tensions escalated between demonstrators and law enforcement. While many people were protesting peacefully against immigration enforcement, officials said some individuals threw ice and damaged police vehicles, prompting authorities to declare an unlawful assembly. State troopers arrested people who did not follow orders to leave the area, and one officer suffered minor injuries. Videos on social media showed confrontations between protesters and police, as well as extremist language used by a far-right provocateur who appeared earlier at the site. Law enforcement agencies said their goal was to balance the right to protest with the need to protect people and property. Write a short response (5-7 sentences) explaining the difference between peaceful protest and actions that lead authorities to intervene. Use details from the story to describe where that line was crossed in this case. Conclude by explaining why protecting the right to protest while maintaining public safety can be difficult.

3. TRUMP’S “BOARD OF PEACE” PLANS FIRST WASHINGTON MEETING

President Trump’s newly created “Board of Peace” is scheduled to meet in Washington later this month to discuss global conflicts and raise money for rebuilding war-torn Gaza. The group has divided U.S. allies, with some countries joining and others refusing, as critics argue it could weaken or replace existing international organizations like the United Nations. Trump would serve as chairman and hold veto power, giving him strong control over the board’s decisions. While the group originally focused on Gaza, its mission has expanded to include peace-building in other conflict areas. Supporters say it could be faster and more effective, while skeptics worry about power, trust, and global cooperation. Explain in 5–7 sentences why some countries might choose to join the Board of Peace while others might stay out. Use specific details from the story about the board’s structure, goals, or leadership.

4. ATTACKS ON UKRAINE’S POWER GRID CONTINUE DURING PEACE TALKS

Russian drone and missile strikes damaged Ukraine’s energy infrastructure during a winter freeze, causing emergency power outages across the country. The attacks hit power lines, plants, and substations, forcing Ukraine to reduce electricity production and ask neighboring Poland for help. Ukrainian leaders said the strikes show Russia is using cold weather as a weapon while peace talks have failed to make real progress. Negotiations involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States have struggled over major issues such as territory, security guarantees, and control of a nuclear power plant. As the war enters its fifth year, civilians continue to suffer even as diplomats meet. Write a news article that explains the recent events and addresses how attacking power systems affects civilians during wartime, especially in winter. Use at least two details from the story to describe the immediate effects and one sentence to explain how these attacks can influence peace negotiations.

5. TOURISM COMPANIES STEP UP TO FIGHT WILDFIRES

As wildfires grow more intense due to climate change, tourism businesses are taking on new roles in fire prevention and emergency response. Lodges, resorts, and wineries in places like Brazil, Costa Rica, and California are training staff as firefighters, creating firebreaks, and using technology like drones and satellite data to monitor threats. Some resorts have redesigned their properties with sprinklers, reservoirs, and fire-resistant landscapes to reduce damage. These efforts protect not only tourists, but also wildlife, employees, and nearby communities. Tourism leaders say they now see fire safety as part of their responsibility to the land they depend on. In 6 to 8 sentences, explain why tourism businesses might feel responsible for protecting the land and ecosystems around them. Use examples from at least two locations mentioned in the story. End by explaining how these efforts could benefit both the environment and local communities in the long run.